The New Orleans Police Department on Wednesday announced that patrol officers are now required to wear cameras to record all conduct while on duty.

The cameras, which will clip on officers' shirts or helmets, will increase accuracy, accountability and transparency, NOPD Superintendent Ronal Serpas said Wednesday.

"This is the next step in American policing," Serpas said, "that will ensure transparency and accountability. There will be no more he-said-she-said."

The 420 cameras will be deployed with patrol officers. Officers will be required to turn on the cameras whenever attending a "business-related event," such as a traffic stop, or responding to a call. When an officer activates the camera, it will record the prior 30 seconds of whatever event is being documented. The contents of the cameras will be stored in the cloud.

NOPD has entered into a five-year contract for the body cameras, which will cost the department roughly $290,000 per year.

Serpas said officers are encouraged to view their videos before writing their reports, including any instances in which an officer uses force.

"Our officers are encouraged to look at their videos before preparing any report," Serpas said, "including use of force."

Each patrol officer is required to attend a three-hour training session. Officers will be learning how to use the devices for the next three weeks, Serpas said.

Editor's note: An earlier version of this story contained an incorrect title for NOPD Superintendent Ronal Serpas.